What to look for in a home security system

Oct 11, 2018By Admin Operator

Saving money makes us feel financially secured for the future because it helps us ensure that we have money to pull out in case of emergencies. However, as positive as it is, we mustn’t do it at the expense of our safety because if something bad happens, we won’t be able to reap the rewards of our effort.

Investing in a quality home security system defies the saying “money can’t buy us peace of mind” because it doesn’t only ensure our safety, it also helps us protect our valuable items, and check our property from time to time even when we’re away from home. Having said that, here’s all you need to look for in a home security system:

Door and window sensors

Doors and windows are the main entries of a home. And that is why setting up a security device on them is a crucial task for every homeowner. Choosing a home security system that includes door and window sensors will help you protect yourself and your family from trespassers and thieves while at home and your property from burglars while outdoors.

Motion sensors

Motion sensors are your next line of defense after door and window sensors because they are set up indoors. The most common motion sensor detector is a Passive Infrared detector (PIR). It detects the movement of people and animals through body heat. Opting for a home security system with motion sensors will do great in helping you protect yourself especially when you’re home alone because there should only be one infrared energy detected in your home---and that’s yours.

However, when your family or friends are at home, you should know how many they are because if you do not know their headcount, you might get into trouble when one of the motions detected is of an intruder’s. Moreover, you should also place your motion sensors far from heat-producing equipment like stoves, vents, and so on to avoid false alarms.

The other types of motion sensors are microwave, dual technology, area reflective type, ultrasonic, and vibration.

Environmental sensors

Although securing your home from criminals is most probably your primary goal in installing a home security system, they aren’t the only threats to your safety. Environmental factors may also put you in danger.

That is why you need to look for environmental sensors in a home security system as well. Environmental sensors will help you detect and address fire, carbon monoxide, and flooding.

Security Cameras

Security cameras enable you to look over your home even if you’re in a different room or outdoors, given that it is connected to your gadget. It also records every footage so that you can replay and watch it again and again.

In worse cases wherein, someone broke into your home, you can use the recorded footage as evidence especially when the offender(s)’ faces are visible in the video.

Easy installation

Since most homeowners nowadays have busy schedules, whether it’s work, or taking care of the family, they opt for home security systems that are easily installed.

A wireless home security system not just helps in save time; it also keeps you away from seeing twisted wires if you don’t want to see them. On the other hand, if you prefer a wired system, and you don’t mind the lengthy installation process, you can also try one because it is less vulnerable to hacking.

Multiple control panels

Choosing a home security system with multiple control panels will enable you to control it through a physical, remote, and virtual control panel.

A physical control panel will enable you to turn your system on and off through a switch while a remote-control panel will enable you through the infrared radiation signals of a remote control. However, physical and remote-control panels can only be used indoors.

On the other hand, a virtual control panel will enable you to manage your home security system outdoors through your internet-connected laptop, phone, tablet, etc.

“Power-free” operation

To some people, power outages could mean lack of security because their home security system cannot operate without electricity. But you don’t need to be one of them because most home security systems are now battery-operated.

Now that you know what to look for in a home security system, you can already start canvassing and choose the one that best fits the size of your home and your budget! Happy shopping!

About Rithu:

Rithumitha is a young entrepreneur who co-founded Digipasar - a startup that aims to enhance people’s life with the best use of smart technology and innovations. Her passion for design and eye for details make her strongly believe that even small things can make a big difference in what we see. This belief drives to her give her best in whatever she does. Find out more on her LinkedIn and check out their TechYourSpace platform!